Funeral Planning

Cremation

A funeral service is normally held at a crematorium chapel, or some families hold a service in a church or community building before the cremation takes place.

You can choose which crematorium you would like the cremation to take place at; you are not limited to the nearest. Some crematoriums are owned by the local council others are privately owned. Each crematorium has different features and options available. Most have media systems allowing you to play music, pictures, videos and live stream the service for people who may be unable to attend.

The service is usually delivered by an officiant. You can choose to have a religious service, a non-religious service or a service that includes some religion.

Towards the end of the funeral service, normally the words of committal or farewell are read, and the curtains can close or you can choose to keep them open. 

Burial

A burial can take place in a churchyard, Local authority cemetery or a privately owned burial ground.

Before the burial takes place there is usually a funeral service held either in a church, chapel or community building.

You can choose which cemetery or burial ground you would like your loved one to be buried. Each cemetery has different graves available and different regulations for memorial stones. 

Natural Burial

A natural burial involves being buried in a natural location as opposed to a traditional cemetery. This means you can have a woodland burial amid the trees or be buried in a meadow site, even somewhere that animals graze.

Some local authority owned cemeteries have natural burial areas within the cemetery, but most commonly natural burials take place at Westall Park near Redditch. Instead of a traditional headstone to mark the grave usually a Wooden or Sandstone plaque can be placed to identify the grave. 

Religion and Traditions

For over 125 years, we have helped families from all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures honour and lay their loved ones to rest. We are experienced in arranging a wide range of religious funerals. We cater for all faiths and religions at Gaunts We understand the many customs and practices of various religions and ethnic heritages, and we will work with you to fulfil your requirements and requests.

Whether the funeral is going to be a burial or cremation, you have the option to choose if you would like any religion included in the service. We work with a close group of professional officiants both religious, non-religious and somewhere in between. 

Celebrants and Humanist

When planning a funeral, having the right person to lead the service can make a meaningful difference. For many families, choosing a celebrant or humanist officiant offers a personal, flexible way to honour a loved one’s life.

Celebrant officiants work closely with you to create a service that reflects the personality, values, and story of the person who has died. They take time to listen, helping you shape a ceremony that feels authentic—whether that includes readings, music, traditions, or personal tributes.

Humanist officiants provide a non-religious service centred on the life and individuality of your loved one. With warmth and sensitivity, they help you celebrate memories, achievements, and connections, creating a heartfelt and respectful farewell without religious elements.

Whatever your wishes, we are here to support you in choosing the right officiant and guiding you through each step with care and understanding.

If you would like to explore these options or speak to someone about arranging a personalised service, please get in touch with our team. We’re here to listen and help whenever you need us.

Personalisation

You may want a funeral service that truly reflects your loved one’s life, personality, and the memories you hold. Personalisation allows you to create a funeral service that feels meaningful and right for you and your family.

You can choose from many different ways to make the service unique—from music that holds special memories, to a personalised coffin, distinctive funeral transport, a chosen dress code or colour theme, or bespoke printed materials.

You can decide as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. We will listen carefully and guide you through each option at your own pace, helping you create arrangements that reflect your wishes while being mindful of your budget.

Music and Media Services

You may wish to include meaningful music as part of the service. Most crematoriums have media systems available to play your chosen pieces, and you can also choose to display a photograph or image throughout the service to create a personal and comforting focus.

Visual Tributes

You may want to share special memories through photographs or video. These can be professionally arranged and set to music, creating a thoughtful slideshow that allows you and those attending to reflect on your loved one’s life.

If you prefer, you can create your own slideshow, and we will ensure it is prepared and played during the service.

Webcast

You may have family or friends who are unable to attend in person. A webcast allows them to be part of the service from wherever they are. Most crematoriums offer live streaming, with the option to watch the service again at a later time.

Live Performances

You may feel a live performance would add a special touch to the service. Whether it’s a choir, soloist, piper, band, or musician, we can help you arrange something that reflects your loved one’s interests, beliefs, or personality.

Announcing the Funeral

You may wish to share funeral details in a way that feels right for you. Many families now choose to use social media, and we can provide a free digital platform to help you inform family and friends. If you prefer a more traditional approach, we can also assist with placing a notice in a local newspaper.

Capturing the Day

You may find the day of the funeral can feel overwhelming. We can help you preserve those moments by recording the names of those who attend. We can also provide condolence or personalised remembrance books, giving family and friends the opportunity to share messages and memories for you to revisit when you feel ready.

Videographer Services

You may wish to have the service recorded. We can arrange for a discreet videographer to capture the day, creating a lasting video for you to watch back or share with others. We can also support live streaming at churches, gravesides, or other venues where media systems may not be available.

Donations

You may choose to support a charity in memory of your loved one, with donations collected instead of flowers. We can provide a secure donation box for cards and contributions, keep a record of donations, and arrange for the funds to be sent to your chosen charity. Alternatively, we can make them available for you to deliver personally.

Order of Service

You may wish to create a lasting keepsake through personalised order of service booklets. These can include photographs, meaningful wording, and unique designs that reflect your loved one’s life. We can print as many copies as you need and provide extras for those who were unable to attend.